The Big Easy is a to-do list destination for pleasure seekers. With live music and jazz echoing through the streets, delicious French and Creole cuisine – everything from donuts to po' boy sandwiches to French 75 cocktails – there are plenty of must-do activities in New Orleans.
General views of an impromptu parade down Bourbon Street in the French Quarter on October 15, 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana.
GC images via Getty Images
But living in the Crescent City can get expensive if you're not careful, so “Good Morning America” explored the best way to enjoy bayou country on a budget.
If you're strapped for cash, check out all the ways you can still enjoy the good times below.
Travel experts share tips for saving on summer travel
ABC News Photo Illustration
Get there
Airfare prices to New Orleans, like most destinations, can vary depending on the time of year, but in early June for example, round-trip fares from O'Hare International Airport from Chicago can be found for under $145 on Spirit Airlines and for $45. more – about $189 – American Airlines offers similar flights that include a carry-on item at no cost.
Where to stay
Check hotel membership programs before booking your stay.
An IHG One Rewards account offers guests a slightly cheaper rate: A room at Hotel Indigo, for example, costs $129 per night for members, or $7 less than the usual rate.
Travel expert Clint Henderson, editor-in-chief of The Points Guy, told “GMA” that “among the perks you can potentially get just by being a member of a loyalty program are free Wi-Fi, late check-out and even room upgrades.”
“In the case of IHG, in particular, you unlock member discounts by booking through their website rather than going through an online travel agency,” he said.
Eat like a local
A general view of the atmosphere of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival at Fair Grounds Race Course on April 24, 2016 in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Josh Brasted/WireImage via Getty Images, FILE
There's no shortage of delicious New Orleans restaurants from legendary chefs like Emeril Lagasse or Nina Compton, but if you're looking to save, check out specials and find must-visit spots that locals love.
At the popular family-owned Parkway Bakery, one of the city's oldest po' boy shops and known for its freshly baked bread, visitors can enjoy an array of oversized stuffed sub sandwiches for as little as $7. And if you can agree on toppings and toppings, sharing a full-size po' boy like the Classic Fried Louisiana Wild Gulf Shrimp costs just $7.70 each for two people.
ABC News' Ashan Singh samples local crawfish in New Orleans.
ABC News
Plus, May through July is peak season for crawfish and local restaurants like Clesi's Seafood Restaurant & Catering offers an abundance of freshwater shellfish for just $8.50 per pound. The restaurant offers weekly specials as well as $3 tacos on Tuesdays and a free basket of fries on Fridays, and offers customers a free order of fries tossed in house-made parmesan garlic butter with purchase of a pitcher of beer.
Jazz musicians saxophonist and guitarist performing on street corner in the French Quarter, New Orleans, USA.
Tim Graham/Getty Images
It wouldn't be a visit to New Orleans without satisfying your sweet tooth with donuts. Famous Café du Monde serves the fried choux pastry, drizzled with powdered sugar, in orders of three for just $3.85 — but remember, it's cash only.
Getting around town
Skip the taxis or ride-sharing apps and get a Jazzy Pass to use public transportation for just $3 per day.
The card includes unlimited ferry, bus and tram rides, offering unique views of the city.
Listen to music
A customer eats a beignet at Cafe Du Monde in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana, United States, Wednesday, February 7, 2018.
Luke Sharrett/Bloomberg via Getty Images
You'll never miss a beat in the jazz-filled French Quarter. Entertainment is free, but be sure to pack some small bills and tip your favorite artists while you enjoy the historic district.
The New Orleans Jazz Museum also hosts free afternoon concerts Tuesday through Friday.
Venture outside the city center
Search for activities, tours and other attractions at the local tourism office to book unique deals.
Plus, Groupon is offering deals on over 40% off the Jean Lafitte Swamp Tour.
More “GMA” travel choices
Anker PowerCore Select 10000 Portable Charger – Black, ultra-compact phone charger with high-speed charging technology for iPhone, Samsung and more.
JISULIFE Wearable Neck Fan, Portable Personal Fan, 4000mAh Battery Powered Bladeless Fan with 3 Speeds
CeraVe Moisturizing Mineral Facial Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 for All Skin Types, 2.5 fl oz
Munchkin® Spotless™ Silicone Placemats for Kids, 2-Pack, Blue/Green
Lonely Planet New Orleans
Collapsible Water Bottles Specially Made with Leak Proof Valve, Reusable BPA Free Silicone Collapsible Water Bottles for Gym, Camping, Hiking, Travel, Sports, Lightweight and Durable
Picaridin Insect Repellent – 3 oz.
54″ Vortex Vented Auto Open/Close Giant Compact Umbrella
Columbia Watertight™ II Jacket
Columbia Arcadia II™ Jacket
